10 Mar 2008 | Ref. 088/2008
JOHNSON CITY, New York — BAE Systems today hosted a “Celebration of Life” luncheon to recognize the work of employees who saved the life of a co-worker in December. A representative of the Broome County Legislature, which recently passed legislation expanding use of the equipment that saved the man’s life, cited the company for its pioneering work with the technology.
On Dec. 6, 2007, BAE Systems employee Mark Brinthaupt’s life was saved by members of the company’s Medical Emergency Response Team who revived him with one of four automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) used at the 600 Main St. facility. At today’s luncheon, Brinthaup joined the employee team, the Union Volunteer Emergency Squad, and the Johnson City Fire Department to celebrate the life-saving event.
“BAE Systems is leading the way for employers throughout Broome County and beyond in its awareness of heart health and its commitment to safeguarding lives by investing in AED technology,” said Eric Denk, the Legislature’s clerk. “In cardiac events like the one that occurred here in December, minutes and seconds can mean the difference between life and death.” Denk attended today’s celebration representing Joe Sanfilippo, the Broome County legislator who sponsored legislation requiring that venues where more than 500 people gather at one time have a defibrillator and trained operator on hand. That law takes effect March 27.
AEDs deliver an electric shock to the heart to re-establish normal rhythm after arrhythmia or cardiac arrest. Soon after BAE Systems’ Johnson City plant purchased its first AED in 1999, the equipment was used to resuscitate a visitor who had suffered a heart arrhythmia while attending a meeting. “Since then we have acquired three more AEDs and trained about 40 employees in their use,” said Colin Soule, senior safety engineer at BAE Systems. “We applaud Broome County for recognizing the vital role this equipment can play in saving lives.”
Recognizing the technology’s importance, BAE Systems in recent years has donated XX AEDs to fire departments, police departments, and other organizations across the Southern Tier.
About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is the premier global defense and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 97,500 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded $31.4 billion in 2007.
For more information, please contact:
Larry Stone, BAE Systems
Tel: +1 607 770 3944 Mobile: +1 607 759 2545
lawrence.w.stone@baesystems.com
Shannon Smith, BAE Systems
Tel: +1 703 907 8257 Mobile: +1 703 967 3854
shannon.n.smith@baesystems.com
